NJPW G1 Climax 2018, Week 2: Every Match Ranked From Worst To Best
17. Kenny Omega Vs. Tama Tonga (21 July)
Rating: **3/4
A superb idea in theory wrecked and ruined in practice, Tama Tonga's disqualification loss to Kenny Omega was the worst singles match 'The Best Bout Machine' is likely to have this year.
After the Firing Squad crew decked Omega before the bell, Tama's early-match dominance was soundtracked by veiled threats he screamed in the IWGP champion's face. This was, to this point, the best bit of storytelling from the troubled Tongan, but his inability to carry the role shone through when the novelty rapidly wore off. Tonga Loa's interference was as limp - he hit Kenny with a chairshot to the knee so weak that Omega used an ushigoroshi almost immediately afterwards in what appeared to be a protest at the shoddy work.
The only worthy takeaway - Kota Ibushi wasn't there to save Kenny before the match, but rocked up after Omega's points were assured - wasn't picked up on by the announcers, but Hangman Page appeared to spot the late arrival.